Domestically-built aircraft carriers of China, left, and the Philippines, right

MANILA BAY, Philippines (The Adobo Chronicles, Manila Bureau) – It’s been a week of great showcase. China and the Philippines have simultaneously unveiled their domestically-built aircraft carriers, coming at a time when tensions continue to rise over the disputed territories in the South China Sea.

China’s first domestically built aircraft carrier slipped into the sea for the first time on Wednesday, after days of publicity celebrating the impending launch as a milestone in President Xi Jinping’s drive to extend China’s military reach far beyond its shores.

At about the exact time, the Philippine Navy christened its own locally-built aircraft carrier made of 100% indigenous materials.

In a statement accompanying the launch, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte said that hopefully, the Philippine aircraft carrier will not have to be used since his approach with China has always been one of diplomacy and reality.

“We’re no match to China’s aircraft carrier, but we’re still proud that the Philippines is able to domestically build its military defenses against any nation that would trample on our sovereignty,” Dutere told The Adobo Chronicles.